GLOBAL CLIMATE CHANGE

&

OUR ENVIRONMENT

We have one planet and our individual existence here on Earth is for such a short, finite period of time. For our generation to be so selfish that we would dismiss, and in some instances deny what scientists - through empirical research and data have defined as global warming - is obtuse and wrong. Science is telling us that global climate change is attributed largely to the activities of humans and our use of fossil fuels that is the cause of increased levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide.

How can we, who inhabit the Earth at this moment in time be so selfish during our existence that we would not take action to protect the future of our children, grandchildren and generations to come? Global climate change is real and every day that we don’t initiate common sense and practical changes in the way we live and the manner in which we produce our energy only further harm’s the future of the planet and its inhabitants.

As this critical discussion and debate continues regarding the implications and actions necessary to address global climate change, we must also acknowledge that our country, and many other countries in the world have significant energy needs. People and the global economies rely upon energy resources, notably those produced from fossil fuels – oil, gas and coal – for their everyday needs and existence. The significant energy resources that humankind has come to rely upon cannot be changed quickly and it will take a coordinated and committed effort on the part of EVERY country to make these important changes in how we exist and produce our energy needs. America must be the leader in this effort. It will be beneficial from an economic and national security position, as well as ensuring a safe and sustainable future for not just Americans, but people around the world.

Think of all the children and young people, sitting in classrooms and research centers here in America and around the world, learning about science and the natural world in which we live, aspiring to be the next great scientists. And for the current administration and elected representatives to deny what science is telling us about our environment and planet simply makes no sense and is contemptible. For America not to be leading a global effort to mitigate the causes of climate change is a failure in leadership and humanity. Global climate change is a national security issue that will impact our efforts related to peace and security, not just here in America but worldwide.

Todd supports these GLOBAL CLIMATE CHANGE & ENVIRONMENTAL policy initiatives that have national security implications:

  • American leadership to address Global Climate Change; rejoining the International Climate Agreement.

  • Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency - Investments in our economy with a focus upon renewable energy sources – solar, wind, geothermal, hydro and biomass; creating millions of high-paying jobs for economic growth for the 21st century.

  • Strong federal safe drinking water and clean air standards.

  • A fully funded and staffed U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) with competent leadership that performs its oversight and accountability responsibilities to effectively protect the American people and our environment.

  • Supporting energy efficiency in our homes and businesses; expanding access to community-solar and wind power in our neighborhoods.

  • Investing in clean energy technology to reduce overall emissions from transportation and manufacturing activities.

  • Strengthening national fuel economy standards as a key component to any efforts to reduce overall carbon emissions.

  • Providing federal incentives for increased production of electric vehicles (EVs) and charging stations.

  • Supporting our farmers and ranchers across PA-13 as they confront the challenges related to climate change; maintaining soil health programs to protect crop production and our food supply.

  • Programs supporting land and water ecosystems through conservation, reforestation, wetlands preservation, and restoration.

  • Strengthening federal research in climate science and research; ensuring that the American people have access and transparency to these scientific findings.

  • Strengthening programs addressing the ocean ecosystem and the extremely harmful effects of plastics pollution upon sea life.

  • Protecting vulnerable wildlife and plant species in America and globally, due to pollution, climate change, loss of habitat and illegal hunting and poaching.

  • Preserving and strengthening the protections of federal protected land and the Endangered Species Act so critical habitat for vulnerable wildlife and plants are not sacrificed for energy exploration or development.